Which statement correctly describes Van der Waals interactions?

• A. Ionic bonds formed between oppositely charged ions
• B. Physical bonds between all atoms; weakest
• C. Covalent bonds formed by sharing electrons
• D. Metallic bonds between metals

Answer: (B)

Van der Waals interactions are weak, non-covalent, physical attractions that occur between neutral atoms or molecules as electron clouds fluctuate and induce dipoles. They exist in all materials but are much weaker than ionic, covalent, or metallic bonds. The description that calls these forces physical, non-bonding attractions that are the weakest among common interactions best captures their nature, whereas ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds involve actual sharing or transfer of electrons or delocalized electron seas and are much stronger.